New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern tests Ed Sheeran for citizenship

Jacinda Ardern replied to a video message from Ed Sheeran with her own recorded messageIsabel Infantes/PA

The prime minister of New Zealand has sent Ed Sheeran a whimsical citizenship test after a cheeky request by the British singer.

In a video message to New Zealanders before a tour in March, Sheeran said: “Hey New Zealand I can’t wait to see you very soon. I’m not yet a citizen of New Zealand but I’m working on it — hook me up prime minister, please.”

Jacinda Ardern replied with a 35-second film recorded in her parliamentary office in Wellington, the capital. “Hello Ed, my name is Jacinda Ardern, I’m the prime minister of New Zealand and I understand you’ve put through a very informal request for citizenship,” she says, trying to appear businesslike.

“Before we’re able to think about that a little bit…

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